Kevin McCarty

Kevin McCarty is a former American politician who served as a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 7th Assembly District from 2014 to 2022. A member of the California Democratic Party, McCarty's legislative career followed a decade of service on the Sacramento City Council. He is recognized for his advocacy on various local issues, including housing, public safety, and education. Following his tenure in the Assembly, he was elected Mayor of Sacramento in 2024.

Early life and career

Kevin McCarty was born on January 6, 1972, in Washington D.C. He is the son of Barbara and Eliot McCarty, with his mother being of Caucasian descent and his father being African American. After his parents' separation during his early childhood, McCarty's mother relocated with him and his siblings to Sacramento, California. This move would later influence his political career, as he became deeply involved in local governance and community issues.

McCarty pursued higher education at California State University, Long Beach, where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science. He furthered his studies by obtaining a master's degree in public policy and administration from Sacramento State University. His academic background laid the foundation for his future roles in public service and policy-making.

Before entering elected office, McCarty gained experience in various political roles. He served as the Policy Director for former California Lieutenant Governor Cruz Bustamante, where he was involved in shaping state policy. Additionally, he worked as a consultant for the Assembly Budget Committee under then-Assemblywoman Denise Moreno Ducheny. These positions provided him with valuable insights into the legislative process and the workings of state government.

Legislative service

McCarty's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Sacramento City Council in 2004, representing the 6th district. During his decade-long service on the council, he focused on issues pertinent to Sacramento's older neighborhoods. His advocacy included promoting safe housing initiatives, conducting inspections of rental properties, and supporting gun control measures. He also championed the establishment of after-school programs aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children in the community.

In 2014, McCarty transitioned to state-level politics when he ran for the California State Assembly after the incumbent, Roger Dickinson, opted to pursue a seat in the California State Senate. McCarty successfully defeated fellow council member Steve Cohn in the election, marking the beginning of his legislative career in the Assembly. His tenure in the Assembly was characterized by a commitment to addressing the needs of his constituents and advocating for policies that would benefit the Sacramento area.

Following the 2020 census, McCarty's district underwent redistricting, resulting in changes to the boundaries of the Assembly districts. His Elmhurst neighborhood was incorporated into the newly defined 6th Assembly District. McCarty was re-elected in the 2022 election, continuing his service in the Assembly until 2024.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his time in the California State Assembly, McCarty concentrated on a range of policy issues that reflected the priorities of his constituents in the 7th Assembly District. His legislative agenda included a strong emphasis on education, public safety, and housing. As a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus, he worked to address issues affecting marginalized communities and advocated for equitable policies.

In the realm of education, McCarty was a proponent of initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education for all students. He supported funding for public schools and programs that fostered early childhood education, recognizing the importance of educational foundations for future success. His commitment to education was also evident in his previous work as a legislative advocate for Preschool California, where he focused on expanding access to early learning opportunities.

Housing was another critical area of focus for McCarty. He advocated for policies that aimed to ensure safe and affordable housing for residents in Sacramento. This included efforts to improve housing inspections and regulations for rental properties, addressing concerns about tenant safety and living conditions. His work in this area reflected a broader commitment to social justice and community well-being.

Public safety was also a significant component of McCarty's legislative priorities. He supported measures aimed at reducing gun violence and enhancing community safety. His advocacy in this area was informed by his experiences on the City Council, where he witnessed firsthand the impact of crime on neighborhoods and families.

In summary, Kevin McCarty's career in public service has been marked by a commitment to addressing the needs of his community through legislative action. His background in political science and public policy, combined with his experience on the Sacramento City Council, equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of state governance. As he transitioned from the Assembly to the role of Mayor of Sacramento in 2024, McCarty continued to focus on the issues that matter most to his constituents, aiming to foster a more equitable and prosperous community.